Chippewa National Forest Deer River Ranger District 2026 Lawn mowing Solicitation with 4 option years

2026 - 2030 Deer River Ranger District Lawn Mowing Solicitation

There will be no scheduled Site Visit if you would like to arrange one contact Adam Myers @ adam.myers @usda.gov Phone:218-246-3458x458

Statement of Work:

The Contractor shall maintain all designated lawn areas within the Deer River Ranger District office compound (located at approximately 1235 Division Street, Deer River, MN) to ensure a neat, professional appearance. Services include routine mowing, trimming, edging (as needed), and seasonal clean-ups. All work shall be performed in a safe, efficient manner, complying with applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including OSHA standards and USDA Forest Service guidelines for environmental protection.

Routine Mowing and Trimming Requirements:

• Maintain grass height so that it does not exceed 4 inches at any time. After mowing, grass shall be cut to a uniform height of approximately 1.5–2 inches.

• Perform mowing and trimming as frequently as necessary to meet these standards, typically weekly during the peak growing season (May–September) and reduced during dry or dormant periods when growth is minimal.

• Inspect the site at least weekly to assess needs and prevent grass from appearing overgrown, uneven, or unkempt.

• Direct clippings and mowing away from building windows, garages, vehicles, or other close-proximity structures to avoid damage or debris accumulation.

• Blow, sweep, or otherwise remove clippings from all sidewalks, pavement, and hard surfaces immediately after mowing.

• Trim around obstacles such as trees, signs, fences, and building foundations to maintain clean edges.

• The Contractor shall provide all necessary equipment, tools, fuel, and labor.

Equipment shall be well-maintained and operated to minimize noise, dust, and hazards.

Seasonal Clean-Up Services:

The Contractor shall perform seasonal clean-up services twice per contract year: one spring clean-up (typically in May, after snowmelt and prior to regular mowing commencement) and one fall clean-up (typically in September/October, at the end of the growing season). Each clean-up shall consist of up to one full workday (8 hours) of labor and equipment as needed (e.g. 4x4 truck and skid steer).

Scope of seasonal clean-ups includes, but is not limited to:

• Removal and proper off-site disposal of accumulated leaves, branches, litter, winter debris, and other non-grass material from lawn areas, sidewalks, pavement, and designated zones.

• Raking, blowing, or sweeping debris from hard surfaces and low-lying areas.

• Edging along sidewalks, curbs, building foundations, and other boundaries.

• Removal of any early-season weeds or thatch in spring, or final-season debris in fall.

• General site preparation (spring) or winterization (fall) to ensure a neat appearance and prevent hazards (e.g., fire risks from dry leaves).

These clean-ups are separate from routine mowing/trimming and shall be scheduled in coordination with the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). The Contractor shall notify the COR at least 48 hours in advance of performing clean-up work. Clean-ups may be rescheduled due to inclement weather or site inaccessibility, with COR approval.

Debris shall not be burned on-site and must comply with USFS and state fire regulations.

Map of Mowing Area:

Areas to Maintain (Within Yellow Lines on Above Map):

• Around each side of the main office building

• Around the north and south garages

• Around and behind the bunkhouse

• Around the island in front of the office

• Along the road on Hwy 6 in front of the office

• Along the tree line edges north and south of the office complex

The total estimated area is approximately 3 acres and bidders are encouraged to conduct a site visit for an accurate assessment.

Quality Assurance and Acceptance:

• Work shall be performed to professional standards, leaving the site neat and free of debris on hard surfaces.

• The COR or designated inspector may conduct periodic inspections. Any deficiencies

(e.g., uneven cuts, missed areas, or excessive clippings) shall be corrected within 48 hours of notification at no additional cost to the Government.

• Failure to meet standards may result in payment deductions, re-performance, or contract remedies per FAR 52.212-4.

Safety, Environmental, and Coordination Considerations:

• Comply with all OSHA safety standards; avoid operations that create hazards (e.g., projectiles toward structures or personnel).

• Use low-impact practices to prevent erosion, runoff, or damage to native vegetation, trees, or shrubs. No chemicals (e.g., herbicides) are required unless specified by the COR.

• Coordinate with District staff to minimize interference with operations (e.g., avoid peak visitor times). Notify the COR at least 24 hours in advance of routine mowing if possible.

• Services are not required during inclement weather that makes operations unsafe;

no payment for missed services due to weather but rescheduling is allowed on an as needed basis.

Contract Period and Options:

• Base period: 2026 (May 15 – October 31, or as growing season dictates).

• Four one-year option periods: 2027 – 2030, exercisable at the Government’s discretion.

Equipment and Insurance:

• All equipment shall be in good repair and properly muffled.

• The Contractor shall maintain general liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence and workers’ compensation as required by law. The United States shall be named as an additional insured.